This community discussion will explore holistic approaches & best practices for in-country support of students from diverse backgrounds from both the faculty program leader and in-country provider perspectives.

Study abroad professionals know that support for students does not end when the student boards the plane to their study abroad location. To the contrary, some students from diverse backgrounds may experience prejudice during the travel process and while traveling in groups going abroad. On-site support for students is the hallmark of a quality program. Institutions of higher education in the US, overseas, and program providers must be inclusive in their practices and prepared to effectively support students from diverse backgrounds. The goal for this session is to provide a holistic view of in-country support for students from diverse backgrounds, with specific examples from faculty program leaders and in-country staff to ensure that all students have a positive learning experience while abroad. Included will be a discussion of how to address topics like mental health, racism/discrimination, sexual behavior, and the role that culture and identity play in diverse students’ overall experience.

The Diversity Network hosts an annual series of community discussions for professionals interested in issues of access, inclusion, and diversity in education abroad and international student and scholar services. Participants are able to join discussions from the comfort of their office or coordinate a group of colleagues to participate together.

During these 60-minute online discussions, experts in the field are invited to facilitate discussions intended to highlight key issues and areas of potential advocacy to ensure the next generation of young people are provided with equitable access and support to high-impact global education opportunities. Participants are provided with key discussion questions to consider ahead of the live conversation to set the groundwork for this interactive forum.

Community Discussions will consist of:

Introduction of Facilitators (5 min)

Guidelines for constructive participation (5 min)

Description of the discussion topic including relevant history/background, current trends/statistics/terminology, & an outline of key questions for community discussion (20 min)